Janinna FarragherHello PDS! I'm Janinna Farragher and I am the PDS Graduate Assistant. This is my second year getting to work with the amazing PDS team. I am finishing up my graduate studies with Buffalo State this year with the Technology Education program. My goal is to create an art and technology blended classroom focusing on exploring creative outlets utilizing engineering and technology. I have enjoyed growing my learning and my career with PDS over the years. I have participated in many IPDS programs in the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica and Italy. Working with PDS has encouraged me to develop many new skills and assets that will help me become the best teacher I can be. However, PDS has shown me that I am more than a teacher. I am an activist, leader, world traveler and advocate for education.
Jarrett Whipple English Education (7-12), B.A., '23 English Education (7-12), M.S.Ed.Hi I’m Jarrett Whipple! I work as a graduate assistant for the Elementary Ed and School of Education offices while earning my master's in English education 7-12. When I’m not working in the office, I’m substitute teaching in the Ken-Ton and Hamburg Central school districts. This past summer I worked as an English 9 teacher at Kenmore West High School where I engaged students in mini-inquiry units culminating in creative projects centered around the students' interests. In addition to my work teaching, I’ve interned at the Center of Teaching and Learning in Edgecomb Maine through Buffalo State’s PDS and have volunteered for the Western New York Network of English Teachers for Buffalo State events and beyond. Outside of the classroom, I love to cook, ride my bike (rode the 30-mile Ride for Roswell route this summer!), and play video games. When I’m not in class or the office you’ll most likely catch me rewatching Dune for the 20th time.
Hailee CipollinaHi! My name is Hailee Cipollina. I'm a senior in the Exceptional Education department with a concentration in Spanish, and I am working on getting my micro credential in American Sign Language. This is my third year as a PDS representative. Over the summer I work at BOCES summer school program for children who need special education and during the semester I am a substitute teacher at Glendale Elementary. I have had the incredible opportunity to travel with IPDS to the Dominican Republic in January 2023 and to Zambia in May 2023. I am very passionate about my teaching career. I chose education because I find so much joy in little kids and I want to be able to make a difference in a child’s life like so many of my teachers have done! PDS has given me the opportunity to meet teachers, work closely with schools and students, and give a voice to teach candidates, and I can’t wait for my third year!
Sarah PrattHi! My name is Sarah Pratt and am a senior in the Early Childhood/Childhood Education Department. This is my second year as a PDS student representative, and I am so excited to continue my research and make new connections! Along with PDS, I am also an active member of Bengals Passionate about Education and a part of the Buffalo State Honors Program. I have always wanted to be a teacher, and I am extremely grateful that my journey has led me to Buffalo State, where I can do just that. I plan to graduate in the spring of 2025 with my degree, along with a micro-credential in ASL. Outside of school I enjoy time with friends and family, being outside, and playing with my dog, Hazel. I am thrilled for the upcoming year and the new opportunities it holds!
Mya Jones Early Childhood Education, B.A.Hi! I’m Mya Jones and currently, I am a senior majoring in Early Childhood Education. This is my first year being a PDS Rep but I’m excited to see what this year holds. After graduation, I hope to continue my education by getting my master's in Literacy Development and then go on to become a literacy specialist in a school setting. Some fun facts about me are I was born and raised in Harlem New York, I have two nephews, and my favorite color is pink.
When I came to Buffalo State in 2021, I started as a Psychology major but figured out a semester later it was not the right fit for me. I knew I wanted to work with children, but I wasn’t confident if I wanted to become a teacher. After taking a couple of education courses and having the chance to be in my first school placement I realized there’s no other job I would want to do. I love teaching and learning more about becoming a better teacher. Working with children, you not only get to see how they progress every day, but you can be a part of their accomplishments no matter how big or small. Which is such a rewarding outcome of this job.
Dottie Candelario Special Education and Childhood Education, B.S. EdHi, I'm Dariana Candelario, a non-traditional student passionate about bringing high-quality education to our bilingual and bicultural communities. With over a decade of experience in private, charter, and public schools; I have continuously dedicated my efforts to creating equitable educational opportunities for all students.
I’m currently pursuing a degree in Special Childhood Education with a concentration in Spanish. This is my first year in the PDS program. I’m excited to grow personally and professionally while making new friends along the way.
As a proud wife and busy mom of three incredible children; I love spending my spare time with them and our St. Bernard while creating unforgettable memories.
